Best $9 Ever Spent

-- Fishing with Howard --

It all started with a Facebook message a week ago. I had a conference to attend in Broomfield, CO and knew Howard Levett (a.k.a. Windknots & Tangled Lines) lived the next town over. Howard and I have interacted via our social networks for over 3 years. I couldn't pass up the opportunity to meet and possibly find some time to fish together. Both Howard and I were able to work our schedules to have Friday off and the outing was planned.

Winter Solstice and Holiday Cheer

-- Merry Christmas --

We have reached the tipping point between night and day. A winter solstice for 2012 is finally here. There were plans for wetting a line today, but high winds and downpours gives solitude and reflection a seat at the table.

2012 has been an interesting year. High school to college transition for our son, Matt, a spirited election and a world facing many economic, social and environmental challenges. Where to go from here?

As long as the rivers flow, I know where my direction will be.

As we look forward to more day than night, we wish all hope for a prosperous new year and tug with every cast.

Thanks so much for your continued support and following. I will close with some holiday cheer from Matt's Troutdoors Productions.



Best of Troutdoors 2012 from Troutdoors on Vimeo.

Instagram Fly Swap II

- Instagram Fly Swap II -

In mid-August, Morgan Kupfer of Tight Lined Tales of a Fly Fisherman and originator of the first Instagram Fly Swap, put out the call for a second Instagram Fly Swap. Previous and new tiers signed up. Baitfish and carp patterns were picked and the group of 11 tiers got rolling.

Below are the tiers and their patterns for the swap. Like the first swap, I was blown away by the quality and unique patterns that everyone put forward. Great work by all!

I've added recipes/links if available. I also took some creative liberties and made up names for flies that came without names or recipes. 

Chasing Bass and Carp on the local ponds

- Warm Water Action -

When the summer heats up and the trout start to hide in the cool deep pools, we are fortunate to have ample warm water fishing opportunities on the local ponds.

Matt's Troutdoors Productions but together a nice video about targeting these great fish on the fly.

 Enjoy the action!

Change

The last couple weeks have been a bit hectic, but in a good way. I started a new job in a new industry and much of my focus is there. We completed the first phase of a home improvement project laying a new floor in downstairs bathroom and laundry area. The Red Sox went from the basement of the American League East to 2 games in front of the Yanks. They just won their last 9 games sweeping the A's, Yankees and Blue Jays by outscoring them to 83 to 35. And the Bruins are in the Stanley Cup for the first time in 21 years.

-- White Perch on Fresh Pimp --

Needless to say, the time on the water has been few and far between.  We have been hitting the local rivers and ponds with some success. My son and I have been chasing pike and carp on the Concord River, but have not had much luck. Roughfisher's Fresh Pimps didn't get the carp, but did land my first white perch.